New Delhi: A 13-year-old Afghan boy managed to travel from Afghanistan to Delhi by hiding in the landing gear compartment of a passenger aircraft. The incident came to light on Sunday morning when a KAM Airlines flight (RQ-4401) from Kabul landed at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport.
According to reports, the boy, a resident of Kunduz city in Northern Afghanistan, sneaked into the Kabul airport and somehow climbed into the rear central landing gear compartment of the aircraft. Despite the grave risks involved, including freezing temperatures and lack of oxygen, the teenager survived the nearly two-hour journey to Delhi.
The incident was reported around 11 am when the airline authorities noticed a boy roaming near the aircraft after it had landed. He was questioned by airline staff and handed over to the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF). The CISF personnel escorted him to Terminal 3, where he was questioned.
Kabul Airport security under lens
During interrogation, the boy told officials that he had acted out of curiosity and had no malicious intent. He also carried a small red speaker, which was later recovered from the landing gear compartment during a routine inspection. Security agencies conducted thorough checks and declared the aircraft safe confirming that no sabotage was involved.
Following the standard protocol, the teenager was sent to Afghanistan the same day on the same aircraft which departed from Delhi 12:30 pm.
Authorities in Delhi said that the situation was handled promptly and in accordance with international security standards. However, the matter is expected to trigger further scrutiny of ground arrangements at Kabul airport. It has faced challenges since the Taliban takeover.
